Home alarm system

Many people who live alone worry about what might happen if they need help in an emergency. Having a home alarm means that help is just a press of a button away. This works by linking the alarm to a response monitoring service that answers and assesses all calls and arranges the most appropriate response.

Who may benefit?

Anyone, of any age, can benefit from having a home alarm installed. Whether you live alone, with family or with a partner, an alarm call can provide peace of mind, security, reassurance and independence.

How does it work?

In order to have a home alarm installed you should have a working telephone socket with an electrical outlet close by. The alarm consists of a small piece of equipment that attaches to your telephone line and electrical socket and a portable radio trigger. The trigger can be worn as a pendant on a neck cord, or on a wrist strap, according to preference.

People with severe physical disabilities are not excluded from having the home alarm service. A special adaptation to the trigger that needs only the lightest touch to activate it can be fitted. It is possible to connect the home alarm directly to an environmental control system for people whose movement is exceedingly limited.

If the caller is within hearing distance of the alarm she or he will be able to talk to the operator and explain what is required. However, even if the caller is not able to hear or speak to the operator, action will still be taken to ensure that the caller is safe and well. The action taken under these circumstances will be agreed with each customer at the time the alarm is installed.

How do I apply?

If you are interested in having a home alarm installed the housing support advisor can provide you with a free demonstration without any obligation. Please contact the Home Alarm Service to arrange a convenient time, request a Home alarm demonstration or download the Home Alarm leaflet. The appointment usually lasts for an hour.

Is there a charge?

Charges are from 1 April 2019.

The Home Alarm Service costs £49.00 per quarter.

There is a one-off installation charge of £35.00.

For further information on the Home Alarm Service, please contact us.

Grants

If you are eligible for a grant to purchase a Home Alarm then the quarterly charge is substantially reduced. The charge still covers maintenance of the alarm and a 24-hour call monitoring service. The current cost of a grant-aided unit is £35.00 per quarter (plus VAT if applicable).

An assessment is required in order to support a claim for grant funding.